'Grinch' visiting unlocked Medford cars, police warn

A rash of thefts from parked cars has Medford police urging motorists to lock doors when leaving their vehicles.

A rash of thefts from parked cars has Medford police urging motorists to lock doors when leaving their vehicles.

Sixteen reports of stolen cell phones, wallets and CDs have poured into the department in recent days, said Lt. Bob Hansen.

"The Grinch is out doing some shopping too," said Hansen.

All but one of the cars was unlocked, according to reports. The driver of that car had locked his vehicle but had also left a window partially open, allowing the thief to reach inside and open the door, he said.

The property loss in these cases is not as significant as the potential for identity theft, Hansen said.